The physics approaches to improved, steady-state tokamak reactors, as evolved through reactor design studies, ideas based on experimental results, and better theoretical understanding, are the foundation for the mission and physics design of the Tokamak Physics Experiment (TPX). The mission of TPX is to develop the scientific basis for cost-competitive, continuously operating tokamak power plants. The paper reports the design status of TPX, a device optimized to achieve improved performance through strong plasma shaping, recycling control, and current profile shaping, while operating continuously. The design incorporates poloidal field flexibility for a wide range of operation in normalized beta and internal inductance, a double-null "Vee" divertor configuration for power and particle control, internal and external n ≠ 0 coils, as well as passive stabilizers, for control of MHD activity, and remote maintenance for continuous high-power operation in deuterium. Having superconducting poloidal and toroidal coils, the TPX device itself is capable of continuous operation, although initially auxiliary equipment limits the pulse length to 1000 s.
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